I commented on this situation a couple weeks ago with my brief trip report. I will continue to defer to those with boots on the ground. I said previously I donate through reputable Negril Charities and will continue to do so. While I understand what Lenbert is doing and as Rob stated Lenbert sees the results it provides and that is clearly good enough for him. Like other complex issues there likely isn't a right or a wrong and its based on perspective. I do feel that the brief self gratification we get as tourists for directly donating is eventually overcome by the furthering behaviors that ultimately are negative to the greater good.

We cruise about three times and were initially suprised last year when the Ochi port ranked near the bottom of Carnival Cruises customer satisfaction ratings and was in the top three on the chop block. Similar reports surfaced recently with the Falmouth report althought they were a bit more muddy. We had heard from passengers on three different cruise lines talk negativley about Jamaica due to the aggressive begging culture. We hate that these folks miss the inner beauty of the country and the people all because of a brief experience. But I do beleive we as tourists have also added to that culture with our well intentioned, but albeit misguided donations.

As I said, I am simply a tourist and won't be so arrogant as to suggest I have the answer. I will defer to those on the ground whose opinions I respect and will continue to donate through organizations. I am now especially intrigued by the Negril Rotary, I will look furhter into that as well!

One Love!